HS 381239 Other

HS code 381239, which covers 'Other preparations for vulcanizing rubber or plastics', has varying duty rates depending on the importing country and trade agreements. For instance, the U.S. Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 6.50% ad valorem. However, preferential rates are available under various trade agreements. For example, under the U.S. Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) and agreements with countries like Australia (AU), Canada (CA), Chile (CL), and South Korea (KR), the duty rate can be Free (0.00%). It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for precise rates applicable to your shipment.

The duty calculation for HS 381239 typically involves an ad valorem rate, meaning a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if a shipment of 'other preparations for vulcanizing rubber or plastics' has a customs value of $10,000 and the applicable duty rate is 6.50% (like the U.S. MFN rate), the import duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (customs value) × 0.0650 (duty rate) = $650. Some countries might also apply specific duties, such as a per-kilogram rate, or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties. Always verify the exact duty calculation method with the destination country's customs authority.

HS code 381239 falls under Chapter 38 of the Harmonized System, which covers 'Miscellaneous chemical products'. Specifically, it is within heading 3812, 'Preparations for the representation of inks and other preparations for the representation of colours; prepared media for the reproduction of images on to sensitized paper or other prepared surfaces, not elsewhere specified or included; lithographic inks; ball point pen inks; inks, other than for writing, drawing, or other similar purposes; prepared unrecorded media for sound recording or for the recording of similar phenomena'. Subheading 381239 covers 'Other' preparations for vulcanizing rubber or plastics, meaning products that do not fit into the more specific subheadings within 3812 and are used to accelerate or facilitate the vulcanization process (cross-linking of polymers) of rubber or plastics. Importers must ensure their product's primary function is related to vulcanization and that it's not classifiable under more specific headings like those for accelerators or retarders if they are separately defined.

Standard import documentation for HS code 381239 generally includes a commercial invoice detailing the product description, quantity, unit price, and total value; a packing list specifying the contents of each package; and a bill of lading or air waybill for transportation. Depending on the importing country and the specific nature of the 'preparation', additional documents may be required. This could include a Certificate of Origin to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements, safety data sheets (SDS) or chemical declarations to comply with chemical import regulations, and potentially import licenses or permits if the preparation contains controlled substances. It is advisable to consult the importing country's customs authority or a customs broker for a definitive list.

Several trade agreements provide preferential duty rates, often including duty-free entry, for goods classified under HS code 381239. For example, the United States has agreements that benefit imports from countries such as Australia (AU), Canada (CA), Chile (CL), South Korea (KR), and others listed with a 'Free' rate (often denoted by 'A' or specific country codes in tariff schedules). The European Union's TARIC system also provides preferential rates for goods originating from countries with which the EU has free trade agreements. Similarly, the UK Trade Tariff reflects preferential rates for goods from countries that are part of the UK's trade network. To claim these benefits, importers must ensure the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement and provide a valid Certificate of Origin.